Peggy Noonan’s soft entrance into what is otherwise a political minefield was noteworthy. Note her use of the word “devolve” each time she makes reference to going from one language—the English language—to two languages with the inclusion of Spanish. She does not for a second undermine the reality of the 14 percent Hispanic population, but she does recognize the impact this has on an otherwise historically advanced civilization.
Although Peggy’s article only implies it, the reality is that no great civilization in all history maintained a leadership role when it internally had more than one language as the spine of its culture. China is a classic example of that problem over time.
At a time in which political correctness continues to be the order of the day, Peggy’s article is worth noting. I’m referencing it below in its entirety.
Declarations: We Need to Talk, The Wall Street Journal, July 7, 2007
Original writing date: July 11, 2007